It’s begin to look likely that American Idol band leader, Ray Chew will return to American Idol. He told The Hollywood Reporter at Tuesday night’s Recording Academy Honors in New York City that he plans to return to the singing competition where he’s been leading the live band since 2010.
“We’ve had some wonderful talks,” Ray said, “so everything is pointing in the right direction.”
If he comes back, he’ll bring back his band, including guitar player, Brady Cohan, who developed a following among female fans needing a WGWG to crush on. Just kidding.
“Ken and Nigel did such a great job over the last 12 seasons and they set the standard for all the other shows,” he said about his former bosses, who have been replaced by a new production team. “I think in tribute to all of the work that they’ve done, they turned it over to the next set of producers to try to build on what they did. If you can’t do anything better try to do something different. “
About the show possibly featuring some fresh themes and new songs, Ray said, ““I know that all of the song selections will be vetted through an executive committee and Fox. Everybody chimes in on that stuff. I’ll have my hand in there and make sure he has my full support for the next ten years.”
So, how do you feel about the probably return of Ray Chew as band leader? I don’t dislike the guy as much as some of you do. I’m willing to give him another shot if the new Idol producers are. I think the fault has mostly been with tired themes and a lack of creativity on the music production side. If the contestants are able to have more say in their own arrangements, if the staff is willing to take a few chances and be a little bold in how they mentor the finalists, a more entertaining show will result.
